‘They that go down to the sea in ships and occupy their business in great waters’. (Ps.107:23)

Sunday, 25^th June was observed as Sea Sunday in our Cathedral when I had an opportunity to share with the congregations the ministry work of the Mission to Seafarers and offer prayers for Seafarers, their families and all those who are involved in any way with seafaring work.

Why do we need to pray for Seafarers?  Thousands of seafarers, both men and women, operate the sea-going vessels.  The world depends so much on seafarers because ninety percent of the world’s trade is by sea.  We depend on seafarers all the year round but more often than not we forget them.  The seafarers spend most of their working lives separated from their families and loved ones and carry out their work in often difficult and dangerous conditions and situations (Ps. 107:26-27).    They face loneliness, isolation, hardship and dangers, often abandoned, hospitalized or jailed in foreign ports.  It is our duty to thank God for Seafarers and pray for them and their loved ones.

Sea Sunday is set aside each year in the Church’s year as an opportunity to remember and pray for the ‘Seafarers’, the invisible people upon whom we depend for the lives we lead and to focus on the Church’s ministry to them.

I’m very grateful for the support given by the members of both St. Christopher’s and Awali congregations and I take this opportunity to say “Thank You” to you all for your support and involvement in this ministry in so many different ways, like the provision of Christmas gifts, visiting seafarers in hospital, supporting fund-raising events or as volunteers, manning the Centre in the evenings.

My special thanks to all those who so generously supported/assisted in raising funds on Sea Sunday in the Cathedral.

If you would like to know more about our work among the seafarers or wish to assist as a volunteer, give me a call on: (Mob. 3924 7413 or (O) 1772 8266.  Email: biss@batelco.com.bh

There is always a great need for more volunteers.  God bless you all, Victor